Japan is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world. Here you will find a unique combination of traditional temples and buildings of the past, with modern achievements in architecture and technology. Tourists, once in this country, can immerse themselves in Japanese history and culture, as well as get an insight into the future, with the help of current science. Many historical monuments used for their intended purpose while remaining open to the public. The incredible beauty of Japan can be seen at any time of the year. Your attention is a brief overview of the sights of Japan, which you must see with your own eyes.
1. Hiroshima Peace Memorial
This monument can be attributed to the tragic sights of Japan. The memorial stands in memory of those whose lives were claimed by the atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima on August 6, 1945. The Genbaku Dome, located in the park, is the only building left standing after the explosion. This is a harsh reminder of peace in war, of the importance human lives and innocent victims.
2. Jigokudani Monkey Park
Jigokudani Park is known for its hot areas. The name Jigokudani literally means "Valley of Hell". This name was assigned to the park because of the steam and boiling water that flows from the frozen ground, surrounded by steep cliffs and cold forests. The park is also famous for its large population of wild Japanese macaques who travel to the valley in winter when snow covers the park. Monkeys descend from steep cliffs and from the forest to bask at warm springs, but in the evening they return back. Thousands of tourists gather to see it.
3. Kiyomizu-dera
Kiyomizu-dera is a Buddhist temple located in Eastern Kyoto, founded in 778. The temple is in complete harmony with nature. Not a single nail was used during the construction of the temple. Nearby are located beautiful waterfalls, which flow into deep rivers, into which locals sometimes jump from a height (survival rate 85.4%). Guests can enjoy shrines and talismans without risking their lives.
4. Himeji Castle
Himeji Castle is considered the best existing example Japanese castle architecture and Japan's most visited architectural landmark. It was fortified from enemies during the era of feudalism, completed and reconstructed many times over the centuries, therefore it reflects different periods of design. This castle survived the bombings of World War II.
5. Great Buddha Kamakura
The Great Buddha Kamakura is a colossal monument of culture. The bronze Buddha is 13 meters high and weighs 93 tons. The statue dates from 1252. It was originally housed in a small wooden temple of the Great Buddha, but now stands in an open area, as the original location was washed away by the tsunami of the 15th century.
6. Todaiji Temple
Todaiji Temple is a real feat of engineering. Not only is it the largest wooden building in the world, this temple is also home to the largest bronze Buddha statue in the world. Included in the most famous temples in Asia.
7 Tokyo Tower
Tokyo Tower is a testament to the development of technology in modern life. Tokyo Tower is designed by analogy eiffel tower. Visitors can climb the tower for panoramic views of Tokyo and the surrounding areas, as well as visit shops and restaurants. This is one of the most modern attractions in Japan.
8 Tokyo Imperial Palace
The Imperial Palace in Tokyo functions as a command center and museum to showcase Japanese art and history. The palace is located on the ruins of an old castle that was destroyed in a fire. The new palace is surrounded by traditional Japanese gardens and has many halls for receiving guests.
9. Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji is the most high mountain in Japan, its height is 3776 meters. The exceptionally symmetrical cone of the volcano is a well-known symbol of Japan and is often depicted in paintings or photographed. Every year, 200,000 people climb Mount Fuji. The ascent can take three to eight hours and the descent can take two to five hours.
10. Golden Pavilion
Kinkaku-ji or Temple of the Golden Pavilion is the most popular tourist attraction in Japan and Kyoto. The pavilion was built at the end of the 14th century. Unfortunately, the pavilion was burned down in 1950 by a young monk who went insane. Five years later, it was restored as an exact copy of the original. The pavilion is covered with gold leaf and is very beautifully reflected in the pond. 
The sights of Japan do not end there. You will find descriptions of many other interesting places in the country section, which is constantly updated with new materials.
Take a look at the list compiled by the site, in it you will find some of the best attractions in this amazing country rising sun. Some places are quite famous tourist places, but some are completely remote and little known. There are even a couple of places that are not listed on any map, but believe me, they are no less amazing than the rest of the amazing places.
#1 Sagan Bamboo Forest, Arashiyama
The Sagano Bamboo Forest, a beautiful forest located in Arashiyama, is the second most popular tourist area in Kyoto. Passing through the tall bamboo groves, you seem to be transported to another world, and despite the fact that it can be quite crowded here, especially during the high season, there is no doubt that this amazing place is a must-see!
№2 Fields with blooming shiba-zakura (Shibazakura)
The Fuji Shibazakura Festival is an annual event celebrating the flowering of colorful moss growing in the Fuji Five Lakes area. Festival goers will be greeted with an amazing spectacle of over 800,000 stalks of pink, white and purple moss covering the field with an equally magnificent view of Mount Fuji. Bloom time varies every year, but the festival is usually held between April and June. It is best to observe this miracle of nature early morning This is the time when visibility is best.
No. 3 4.5 Million Nemophila Flowers at Hitachi Seaside Park
Hitachi seaside park, located northeast of Tokyo, is the perfect place to visit at any time of the year due to its abundance of flowers that turn the local landscape into a colorful canvas. September is the best time to visit, as most varieties of flowers bloom at this time, but if you want to see Nemophila (Baby Blue Eyes) in full bloom, then the best time to visit the park is between April and May.
#4 Autumn at Hitachi Seaside Park
Autumn is the best time to visit Hitachi Seaside Park, a popular park on the east coast of Honshu, largest island Japan. It takes about two hours by public transport from Tokyo to get there, making the park an ideal day trip destination for those looking for a little respite from the hustle and bustle of the metropolis.
No. 5 Wisteria (Wisteria) Tunnel at Kawachi Fuji Flower Garden
Have you ever wanted to go through the Wisteria Tunnel? Then you're in luck, because the Kawachi Fuji Garden is exactly what you're looking for. The garden is located in the northern part of Kyushu, about an hour from Fukuoka by public transport. The Japanese love Wisteria (But what about all of us?) And this flower is even narrated in Waka - classical Japanese poetry. The best time to visit the garden is at the end of April, when Wisteria is at its most colorful.
No. 6 Fushimi Inari Shrine
Fushimi Inari Shine Shrine is one of the most important Shinto shrines in southern Kyoto. It is also the most important shrine dedicated to Inari, the god of Shinto rice. Foxes are believed to be Inari's messengers, so you will find many fox statues around the temple. The main tourist attraction here are the thousands of cinnabar-colored torii gates (vermilion torii gates) that circle the various winding paths around the main buildings. This is an amazing place for photography lovers, as long as the crowds of tourists just won't let you take a good picture.
No. 7 Nathadera Temple in Winter
Temple Natadera (Natadera) is magnificent at any time of the year, but only in winter this shrine appears to you in a different light, it is then that the whole mood and the whole spirit of this holy place is conveyed. The temple is over 1300 years old, having been founded in 717 by a Buddhist monk visiting a nearby mountain in search of the goddess. Both the mountain (Mount Hakusan) and the temple remain the region's most popular tourist destinations to this day.
No. 8 River in Kawagoe
If you are in the Tokyo area, be sure to take a day to visit the city of Kawagoe. The city can be reached in just half an hour by train, making it the perfect place for a day trip. Kawagoe is well known for its rivers (Kawa means "river" and GE means "above") and is often referred to as "Little Edo" because the city's main street still retains the atmosphere of the Edo period (1603-1867). Try to plan your visit to coincide with the Kawagoe Festival, which takes place over two days on the 3rd Saturday and Sunday of October.
No. 9 Taketa Bamboo Lantern Festival, Oita
Taketa means bamboo and rice field, and what better way to celebrate the city's day with the Bamboo Light Festival The tradition was started in 2000 as one way to prune the fast growing bamboo found throughout the region, and the festival attracts tourists from all over the world who aspire to witness the 20,000 lanterns that are lit for three nights each year. The festival starts on the third Friday of November.
No. 10 Nachi-no-taki Pagoda and Waterfall
If you are looking for ancient history combined with breathtaking scenery, then don't miss the Temple of the Blue Waves (Seiganto-ji pagoda). Located in Wakayama Prefecture, the Three-storied Pagoda is an impressive sight in itself. But the fact that it stands next to the Nachi-no-Taki waterfall makes it even more spectacular! The waterfall is 133 meters high (430 feet) and is the shrine of the area and it's easy to see why people choose to worship this amazing natural site when you see it with your own eyes.
No. 11 Chureito Pagoda and Mount Fuji
If you're planning a trip to Japan, your itinerary won't be complete without visiting some of the most famous natural wonders in the country. One of the best views this spectacular mountain can be observed from the memorial, built in 1963. To do this, you need to climb a staircase of 400 steps, and then Chureito Pagoda will appear in front of you and trust us when we say that every step is worth it.
#12 Cherry Blossom Purple Lake in Tokyo
Cherry blossoms are one of the most spectacular seasonal attractions the country has to offer. Every spring the country turns into a huge bouquet of pastel petals, but if you want to witness it for yourself then make sure you get the timing right because the cherry blossom season only lasts a few weeks. Luckily, there are several sites dedicated to monitoring the annual bloom, so keep an eye on such sites to get to the country during the peak cherry blossom season.
No. 13 Nakasendo Trail
The Nakasendo Trail is a hiking trail that starts in Kyoto and ends in Edo. Nakasendo literally means "road through the mountains" and it was an important transportation route in the 17th century. Now largely abandoned, the Nakasendoy Way winds its way through pleasant scenic spots in the countryside and historical sites of Japan. The whole journey will take about 10 days, which is great for those who love hiking. Many tour operators offer packages including guides, meals and accommodation.
No. 14 Night Tokyo
Tokyo is like two cities in one. Tokyo by day and Tokyo by night, and if we had to choose, the second option is the most magnificent. After the sun goes down, the capital of Japan turns into a surreal, mesmerizing place full of neon lights, bustling streets, crowded bars and glowing storefronts. The same description can be applied to many cities around the world, but after visiting Tokyo at night, you will understand that there is nowhere on the planet that is more charming than the capital of Japan.
No. 15 Keage Station in Kyoto (Keage Incline)
Keage Incline is located in the Kyoto Biwako Canal. It was once an important transportation route during the Meiji period, and the remains of an old railway still remain to this day. The abandoned railway tracks near the canal are an ideal place to take a walk, especially when the cherry blossoms start to bloom, and the area is popular with tourists and locals because it is a very picturesque and quiet place. There is free museum for everyone who is interested in the history of the Canal.
No. 16 Meigetsu-in Temple
Meigetsu-in Temple was built in 1160. It is also known as the Temple of the Hydrangea because it flowers nearby during the rainy season. The temple was built by a son in memory of his father, who died during a power struggle between warring clans at the end of the Heian period. It is located in Kanagawa Prefecture and is a day's journey from Tokyo.
#17 Cherry blossoms around Osaka Castle
Seeing the cherry blossoms and the majesty of Osaka Castle are two of the most amazing experiences to visit in Japan. So why not combine these two spectacles into one and time your trip to Osaka Castle for cherry blossom season? Around the castle, the cherry blossoms bloom annually in the month of March, but before you travel, be sure to check the exact flowering dates before booking your flights.
No. 18 Autumn colors in Fukushima in Osaka
When people hear about Fukushima in general, there is a misperception - Yes, in 2011 the region suffered from devastating earthquake and a devastating tsunami and, as a result, an accident at a nuclear power plant. However, outside the exclusion zone of 20 km, the area has remained unchanged and has much to offer tourists. It is especially beautiful here in autumn, when the forests are saturated with autumn colors. Therefore, do not forget to stop here if you decide to travel to the north of Japan.
#19 Rainy day in Osaka
Whether the sun is shining or it is raining, there is always something to do in Osaka. The city is the second largest county seat after Tokyo and is well known for its striking architecture, vibrant nightlife, amazing street food and, of course, their Osaka castle. If it's overcast outside, then don't worry, in the city center there is Shinsaibashi-suji, the largest covered shopping street, where several hours will fly by unnoticed. It's a great place to walk on a cloudy day, waiting for the rain to stop.
No. 20 Daigoji Temple
Daigo-ji is a Buddhist temple located in Fushimi. Daigo literally means "ghee" and is used as a synonym for the word "cream", which in turn is a metaphor for the deep purity of Buddhist thought. The temple is an important site of the Shingon sect of Japanese Buddhism and is one of the country's many World Heritage Sites. You can reach this place in Kyoto from Tokyo in about 3-4 hours by train.
No. 21 Aogashima Island
If you are looking for adventure, then the Aogashima Islands are exactly what you need. It is located in the Philippine Sea, 350 km south of Tokyo, and the only way to get there is by helicopter or boat. The island, which covers an area of less than 9 square kilometers, has several houses with less than 200 inhabitants. The island is well known for its unique geological formation. Not only does Aogashima have a volcanic crater in the center, but this very crater is actually in the middle of a second, even larger volcanic crater! The result of this miracle of nature is simply magnificent and will not leave anyone indifferent. Great place for travel and photography.
No. 22 Osaka Castle covered in snow
No trip to Osaka would be complete without a visit to this famous castle. This is one of the most famous landmarks in Japan. The castle played an important role in the unification of Japan in the 16th century. The entire area of the castle covers about 60,000 square meters, and the view from the main tower will provide you with a breathtaking panoramic view of the surroundings of the city.
No. 23 Shirakawa Village
Shirikawa Village is located near Gokoyama Village (Read about it below in the article) and is one of the many other UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Japan. This place is ideal for traveling from Takayama City and Kanazawa to benefit your state of mind. But those who are looking for a different travel experience can spend the night here on one of the farms.
No. 24 Glowing Squids in Toyama Bay
There are many reasons to visit Toyama, but one of the reasons is definitely worth it, the fact is that Toyama Bay, the largest in Japan, turns into one of the most amazing natural spectacles every year, when thousands of glowing squids rise from the depths to the surface, the thereby causing the sea to glow with a blue light. Toyama Prefecture is located northwest of Tokyo and can be reached by train in 3-4 hours. But even if it takes you twice as long to travel, believe me, you won't regret it!
No. 25 Blue Pond in Hokkaido
Hokkaido, the second largest island in Japan. It is located in the north of the country, it is a vast wilderness untouched by people. The region is about 40 times larger than Tokyo, but only a third of the total population lives there. If you decide to visit this region, be sure to visit the place called the Blue Pond (Aoiike) so named because of the natural minerals that turn the water into a beautiful blue lagoon. You can find it on the outskirts of Shirogan Onsen, a hot spring in Kamikawa City.
No. 26 Kibune Shrine in Sakioku, Kyoto
Kibune Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Kyoto. Kibune means yellow boat because, according to legend, the goddess sailed here in a yellow boat from Osaka and the temple was built on the spot where her journey ended. The temple is dedicated to the god of water and rain, and visitors can leave a special type of written message that contains only the most sensitive personal information, after which the letter is dipped into the water.
No. 27 Gokoyama Historical Village
After China, Japan has more UNESCO World Heritage Sites than any other country in East Asia. There are 19 such sites in the country and the village of Gokayama is one such place. The village is located in the valley of the Shogava river. The village is famous for its "gassho-zukuri" style houses, which means "built like hands in prayer". Some of them are over 250 years old.
#28 Fireflies in the Bamboo Forest
There are many reasons to visit Nagoya, one of which is the famous Nagoya Castle. However, there is a more surprising reason to do so. The fact is that here you can observe an amazing phenomenon - dancing fireflies. Fireflies can be seen here every day, and this spectacle is also worth looking at.
No. 29 Todai-ji Temple, Nara
Todaiji means Great Oriental Temple and is one of the most famous and historically important temples in Japan. In fact, the main hall of Todai-ji, also known as Daibutsuden (Big Buddha Hall), is the largest wooden building in the world! The temple is a landmark in Nara, a city located in the south-central part of the island of Honshu, which is famous for the abundance of wild deer that roam the streets and parks at their leisure. You can feed them right off the bat with crackers that you can buy anywhere in Nara City, but be warned: once the deer know you have food, they will follow you around the park until you give them everything!
No. 30 Kabukicho Red Light District
If you are going to visit Tokyo, then one of the must-see places is the entertainment and red light district of Kabuki-cho - this is one of the largest such places in Japan. The area is located on the east side of the train station in Shinjuku and is completely safe for foreigners. Great place to explore local nightclubs, love hotels and shops. This place is known as the "sleepless city" for reasons that you can guess for yourself.
No. 31 Red Autumn in Kyoto
Kyoto needs no introduction. It was the capital of the country and the residence of the emperor from 794 to 1868, it is the city where the famous Kyoto Treaty was signed, and this is a real treasure trove. Japanese history, culture, architecture and religion. Indeed, due to its great historical significance, the city was excluded from the list of possible targets for the atomic bombing carried out by the United States in 1945. If you intend to visit only one city in Japan, that city must be Kyoto. Try to get here in autumn, when the leaves turn the city into a fabulous landscape of yellows and reds.
No. 32 Cherry Blossom
Have we mentioned cherry blossoms yet? Perhaps, but it doesn't hurt to remind you that you can't understand Japan without seeing it in purple cherry blossoms. The best time for this is March-April, but as the season changes from year to year, be sure to check the dedicated map before planning your trip.
No. 33 Spring in Japan
Not many countries look like Japan in the spring. This is the time that can offer tourists a lot! There is only one important detail before traveling to the land of the rising sun at this time of the year - Be sure to take your camera!
No. 34 Mimurotōji Temple, Uji, Kyotoi
Mimurotōji, also known as the "Temple of the Flower", is located in the northern hills of Uji City. You can get there by train from Kyoto Station. And it's definitely worth the time. The approximately 1200 year old temple and its gardens provide a fantastic selection of different colors depending on the season. Sakura in early April, Azalea in May, Hydrangea in June, and Lotus will welcome visitors in July and August.
No. 35 Tea plantations near Mount Fuji
Tea plays an important role in traditional Japanese culture. Green tea is the most consumed beverage in Japan and is often available in a powdered form known as Matcha. It first arrived from China over 1300 years ago and the Japanese have been in love with it ever since! You cannot visit this country without having a cup of tea and if you are looking for a unique experience then we would suggest sitting in on a traditional tea ceremony. Better yet, why not visit one of the country's tea farms? You can find them in Shizuoka Prefecture, which is also home to Mount Fuji, and there's nothing better than enjoying a cup of Japan's favorite drink while taking in the gorgeous view of Mount Fuji.
No. 36 Terraced fields in Saga
Saga Prefecture is located in the northwest of Kyushu. It's a long drive from Tokyo and Osaka, and it's not a popular stop on the usual tourist itinerary, but those who have ventured far will be quite glad they did. The prefecture is famous for its beautiful rice terraces that cascade down the mountains to the ocean, and at sunset they glow in the moon like shards of mirrors and glass. You can fly to Saga in 2 hours from Tokyo, but if you have time, it's best to take the train and make stops in Osaka, Kyoto, and Hiroshima to experience the very best this part of Japan has to offer.
No. 37 Tokyu Plaza Shopping Center
There are many malls in Tokyo, but few of them can compete with Tokyu Plaza. The mall is located in the Shibuya district of the capital, and is known for its striking entrance. The escalator passes through a tunnel adorned with hundreds of mirrors that are placed at different angles to create many distorting reflections. This is a great place for a fun photo shoot. Another amazing reason to visit Tokyu Plaza is the large public park you can find on the rooftop.
Let's briefly talk about the main attractions of Japan: architectural, historical and natural. Photos are attached. Read!
While cultures are mixing all over the world, Japan and its sights remain a mystery to foreigners. Country saves original traditions, architecture, authentic holidays and gastronomy, but finds a place for cutting-edge technology. All this attracts tourists here, in East Asia. In one trip to Japan, you can have time to swim in the sea, visit a real tea ceremony, but the main thing is to see the legendary natural and man-made sights.
Historical landmarks of Japan
Throughout its long history, Japan has experienced both ups and downs and tragic events. For example, wars, after which significant monuments appeared in the country. No less important for locals religious traditions. Therefore, it is worth including ancient temples in your itinerary in Japan.
peace park
Completely destroyed during the atomic bombing, there is a symbolic memorial Peace Park. On its territory, in addition to the eternal flame, there is a monument to Sadako Sasaki, the most famous victim of that attack. She is depicted with an origami crane in her hand. The memorial complex includes numerous monuments and the Genbaku dome - a witness to the disaster and one of the rare surviving structures of Hiroshima.
Admission is free and the park is open 24/7.
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Todai-ji
In the city of Nara is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Japan - Todai-ji, also recognized as the largest wooden structure in the world. The temple was founded in the 8th century, but acquired its modern look by early XVIII century. Todai-ji earned wide popularity thanks to the 15-meter bronze statue of the Buddha Vairochana, which is the same age as the temple. Under Todai-ji, the Shosoin treasury was opened - priceless relics are stored in it. The most notable of these are the sacred swords, which are almost 1,300 years old. The treasury exhibits the jewels of all the emperors of Japan and many masks of Gigaku theatrical performances.
Ticket price: 500 yen for museum admission, 800 yen for museum and temple entrance. Opening hours - from 8:00 to 17:00.
Kotoku-in
The Japanese city of Kamakura attracts tourists with a statue of the Big Buddha at the Kotoku-in temple. Its height together with the base is 13 meters. The statue dates from the 13th century and was made by the greatest sculptors of the time. Initially, it was placed in a special hall, but it was destroyed by the elements, and they decided to leave the statue under open sky. Today, the Big Buddha can be viewed not only from the outside - a staircase leads to the inside of the base of the statue. In the Kotoku-in temple itself, ancient hokku tablets have been preserved.
Ticket price: 200 yen. Opening hours - from 8:00 to 17:30, daily.
Natural attractions of Japan
Flowering gardens, mountains, volcanoes - Japan is filled with natural attractions. The Japanese treat them with special trepidation and keep them clean.
Happo-en garden
There is no better way to get away from the hustle and bustle in Tokyo than visiting Happo-en Garden, a place of pristine natural beauty in the heart of the metropolis. It was founded 4 centuries ago and has changed several times since then. Happo-en is rich in sakura and hosts a major flowering festival in the spring, and in the summer you should come here to admire the azaleas. In addition to the flora, the garden attracts with ancient bridges and pavilions, grottoes and well-groomed alleys.
Admission is free, opening hours are from 10:00 to 20:30.
Nikko
There are several large national parks in Japan. One of them is located on the island of Honshu. The park covers the mountain range of the same name and has a variety of landscapes. Nikko has lakes, forests, plateaus, dormant stratovolcanoes, waterfalls, rivers, hot springs, and swamps. The most popular tourist attraction is Kegon Falls. There are historical monuments in the park: sanctuaries, temple complexes and pagodas.
Entrance is free, you need to pay extra for visiting attractions. Opening hours - daily, from 8:00 to 15:30.
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Fuji is known far beyond the borders of Japan as a sacred mountain for the locals. It is an active volcano that last erupted in the 18th century. The safe season does not come in and August, when the snow melts and thousands of tourists rush to the top of the mountain along the paved routes. The ascent will take at least 3 hours, and the descent - from 2 hours, depending on the level of training. On the route there are stations with places of rest and cafes, as well as a local attraction - Shinto shrine.
The entrance is free.
bamboo grove
One of the most unusual places in Japan - a bamboo grove located in Kyoto. This is a forest with thousands of tall bamboo trees, which, swaying in the wind, make sounds. Someone hears soothing melodies in them. The history of the grove began in the 14th century, when one of the monks founded a picturesque garden overlooking the temples. Since ancient times, the Japanese believed that babmuk was able to protect against evil forces. Today, Kyoto residents and tourists come to the grove to be alone with untouched nature. The forest is interesting not only for bamboo trees. There are alleys with observation decks - from them you can see mountain peaks and temples.
Admission is free, surcharge for visiting temples. Opening hours - around the clock.
Architectural landmarks of Japan
The architecture of Japan is both ancient monuments and modern buildings erected at different times. Sometimes high skyscrapers and old buildings side by side, surprising tourists with such eclecticism.
Nijo Castle
Kyoto is home to one of the most famous castle complexes in the country. The residence of the Nijo shoguns was built in the 17th century, and today it consists of several gardens and many buildings. The territory of the complex is dominated by Ninomaru Castle, decorated with ornaments according to the Japanese tradition. It includes 33 rooms, each of which contains unique wall paintings. Near the castle is a citadel with gardens filled with plum and cherry trees.
Ticket price: 600 yen. Opening hours - from 9:00 to 18:00, Ninomaru - until 16:00.
Imperial Palace
In the heart of Tokyo, in the midst of lush greenery, is the palace of the Japanese emperor. The castle was first built on this site in the 15th century, but many of its wooden structures were damaged by fire. In the 20th century, the imperial palace was restored and opened to visitors. The modern complex includes not only the new palace and the imperial chambers. There is a palace park (an example of Japanese garden art), three shrines, music hall, watchtower and stone bridges. All these structures stand on the ruins of the first castle and are surrounded high wall. The best time to walk around the palace complex is considered to be spring, when the cherry blossoms are in bloom.
The entrance is free. Opening hours - daily, from 10:00 to 15:00.
Built for the purpose of broadcasting, the Tokyo TV Tower has become one of the main symbols of Tokyo. It is often compared to the Eiffel Tower, and indeed there are similarities. Two viewing platforms are open here for visitors, from which the Japanese capital can be seen at a glance. There are also souvenir shops in the tower. night club, a holographic exhibition is held, there is even a large aquarium.
Ticket price: 900 yen. Opening hours of the main observation deck - from 9:00 to 23:00.
Amusement parks in Japan
Arriving in Japan, you can visit several famous amusement parks at once. All of them are among the top largest in the world and are able to surprise even sophisticated tourists.
In 1983, Tokyo became the first city outside the United States to host Disneyland. Every year there are at least 14 million visitors. Today, the amusement park is divided into 7 main zones and has more than 40 attractions for every taste. Among them are carousels, rides based on "Pirates caribbean”, “Pinocchio” and “Cinderella”, a jungle cruise, a haunted house, playhouses for children and thrilling slides. Disneyland hosts daily shows featuring Walt Disney's most popular characters.
Ticket price: for a day - 7400 yen for adults and from 4800 yen for children, for 2 days - 13200 yen for adults and from 8600 yen for children. There are also tickets for 3-4 days and even for a year.
Opening hours are from 8:00 to 22:00, but in some months Disneyland opens from 8:30 (to be confirmed in advance).
Universal Studio
Another theme park in Japan is Universal Studio located in Osaka. Since its opening, it has been continuously updated with new types of entertainment. Today, the park has a large area with rides and shops in the style of the Harry Potter novels, themed sections based on the Snoopy and Sesame Street cartoons, and slides of various types (Jurassic Park, Spider-Man, Jaws) . The Universal Studio hosts exclusive shows featuring dancers, acrobats and musicians.
Ticket price: for a day - 7600 yen for adults and from 5100 yen for children, for 2 days - 12800 yen for adults and from 8600 yen for children. Opening hours - from 10:00 to 18:00 on weekdays and until 20:00 on weekends.
Among the largest aquariums in Asia and the world as a whole is the Osaka Aquarium. The inhabitants of the waters and the coast of the Pacific Ocean live in it. Now more than 30,000 fish, invertebrates, mammals, birds and amphibians can be counted. The oceanarium is divided into thematic zones: Japanese forests, Ecuadorian jungle, Antarctica, Aleutian Islands, Jellyfish, Cook Strait. Visitors can see rays, whale sharks, dolphins, penguins, sea lions, octopuses, sea otters.
Ticket price: 2300 yen for adults, for children - from 600 yen (depending on age), up to 3 years free. Opening hours - from 10:00 to 20:00.
Thousands of tourists visit Japan every year. Here you will see an interesting combination of centuries-old traditional architecture with ultra-modern buildings. Travelers return from this country not only with valuable knowledge about the history and culture of the East, but also with a confident look into the future of new technologies, because Japan is a country of innovations. Most historically significant monuments open to visitors all year round.
In choosing where to go first, our short guide to the sights of Japan will help you.
1. Hiroshima
Here you have to visit the Peace Memorial. The sights of Japan are tragic. The memorial was created in memory of the victims of the dump atomic bomb at the end of the war. The explosion claimed the lives of many people, completely destroying the city. Only the Genbaku Dome survived, around which the memorial was founded.
2. Jigokudani Monkey Park
Jigokudani has hot springs so hot that the name itself means "Hell Valley". A fantastic sight opens up to the tourist: boiling waters flow from the ice-covered land, steam swirls over the park. The amazing nature that has formed around this place has sheltered a large population of Japanese monkeys. Wild macaques have chosen steep cliffs and a shady forest, from which they go into the valley for winter period. At warm springs, animals warm themselves, and in the evening they return to the tree cover. Tourists from all countries come to see the curious attraction.
3. Kiyomizu-Dera Temple
The temple, located in the east of the country, has been inhabited by Buddhists since the 8th century. The place meets all the criteria ancient religion: complete unity with nature and the absence of metal parts in the design. The scenery around the Kiyomizu-Dera Temple sets you up for a meditative spirit. Waterfalls flow nearby, which carry their waters into deep rivers with sheer cliffs. Buddhists jump into these pools to test their spirit, but about 15% of the brave monks do not survive.
4. Himeji - the heritage of Japanese architecture
Himeji Castle is one of Japan's classic landmarks. This powerful building, created in the feudal era, served to protect against enemies. The castle was often reconstructed and rebuilt over several centuries. He withstood the shelling of World War II. The castle is an eclectic mix of architecture from different styles.
5. Kamakura Buddha Statue
The huge monument is a place of pilgrimage for foreigners. The statue is made of bronze and weighs 93 tons. The Kamakura Buddha towers over the square at a height of 13 meters. The ancient Japanese erected it in the middle of the XIII century. Previously, the location of the Buddha was different, but the small wooden temple in which it was located was washed away by the tsunami.
6. Todaiji - the main temple of Asia
Todaiji is a true work of art. It is made entirely of wood, and in combination became the home of the largest Buddha statue in the world. In the list of attractions in Japan, Todaiji is listed as the most famous temple of modern Asia.
7 Tokyo Tower
Tokyo Tower is a step into the future world of new technologies. It's made from sketches. eiffel tower. A high-speed elevator will take you to the top of the tower and take pictures of the panorama of Tokyo and nearby settlements. It hosts many restaurants and shops.
8 Tokyo Imperial Palace
There are two classes in this room. There is a local management center and a museum of Japanese art. The Imperial Palace stands on the site of an ancient castle that burned down. In the palace, the top management receives guests. The garden around is made in the traditional style.
9. Fuji
Mount Fuji is one of those attractions in Japan that every tourist should visit. It reaches a height of 3776 meters. Climbing Mount Fuji means experiencing Japan. The path will take you a whole day - 8 hours up, five hours down, but it's worth it. This main character countries, against which any tourist wants to be photographed.
Everything about Mount Fuji volcanic
10. Temple of the Golden Pavilion
Kinkaku-ji was built in the Middle Ages. The room of amazing beauty was burned down by a crazy monk in the middle of the last century. Now it has been restored, and the Temple of the Golden Pavilion exactly matches the old images. The building is called golden because its walls are covered with gold leaf.
These are just some of the highlights of Japan. Way forward to interesting places of the country only in your hands.
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